Sunday, February 24, 2008

Now, To Live The Life!

Skies are blue over DC this morning as students head back to campuses all across the eastern US with a fresh sense of what CAN BE if we allow the Spirit of God to live through us what we could never pull off on our own. Passion DC was so special, and it ended in such a potent way last night. As you may know, we are hosting friends from the World Tour cities at each of these regional events. In DC we had guests from Paris, London and Hong Kong. A student that came with the HK team actually came from the mainland, where in 2004, as a struggling college freshman, she found Jesus. An English Lit and Translations major, her English rocked. But what blew us away was hearing Sam share about her journey to Christ, her connection to Passion, and about her hearing my talk from Passion 07 and wondering if the World Tour would make it to China.

For one, her simple step of giving her life to Christ brought tears to most of us, as she recalled sitting at her desk at midnight one night, feeling that the pull of the story she was encountering about Christ was just too irresistible (her words), she thought, "I really don't even know how to pray, so I just said, Jesus, will you take me.....and He did."

How Sam got a visa to even be in DC is still somewhat of a mystery and a miracle. But can you imagine standing in front of 3000 students and telling your story in a language that's not your own. Amazing! I hope to share more on the podcast this week, but it was pretty funny when she, after listening to the last talk from Passion 07 (long story), would watch the web to see if we might come somewhere near her. She said, "So I was sitting eating my dinner, scrolling through the 268Generation site, and when I saw Hong Kong I just dropped my rice bowl!! I couldn't believe it!!" Wow. Sam is the face of the Passion World Tour (and events like DC). She is why we are headed to Atlanta, Hong Kong and beyond!

Somehow, I believe God used Ashley, Christa and Sam more this weekend than anyone who was on the stage...students showing the power of God to students, and hope being birthed about the potential each of us has to be a part of a supernatural God-story that spans the globe.

Today, Passion DC really begins. God has touched our lives in ways only He can. Now, it's time to live the life. We will not be the same, and the world has changed. Students this weekend are sending 11,117 pairs of socks and 2920 towels to the shelters of Metro DC! Plus, they gave $42201 to build 14 wells in Africa AND $36,217 for Passion Kampala. Amazing! By the way, if you didn't notice (and haven't already cut yours off), if you turn your DC wristband inside out Passion Kampala is printed on the other side...hopefully a reminder to pray for this event from now until May.

Lastly, I must say excuse me to all in DC. In another step in the "humanization of Louie" (last weekend it was my math prowess), please excuse the mid-talk burp, the first, I think, in over 30 years of speaking in front of people. What a special moment for all! LOL! :)

So, we're all pretty ordinary, just more fuel for the story of what a limitless God can do through us.Louie [with the Passion team and our brilliant volunteers]

95 Comments:

i just wanted to leave a brief message of thanks for everything you all do. this weekend was truly amazing and a real blessing from God.Keep praying... there is so much left to be done and great things will truly happen! "the harvest is plentiful"best of luck with all that's coming up!

wow!!!! It is so thrilling to hear what happens at each of these events - I wish I could be at all of them... Louie, thanks so much for sharing with us all.Know that we are praying for you and the passion movement as you go around this planet...Praise Jesus!!!!

Just realized that on the inside of My Passion:Dallas bracelet was a reminder for Seoul, South Korea. What a wonderful surprise! I barely got it turned inside out, but even though it is wrinkled and a bit torn, I will be reminded daily to lift up that city to our Overcoming Savior. Greater things...

As a former English teacher in the mainland, that story means so much to hear! Continuing to pray for you all in Denton, TX. Friday night my heart was broken as I prayed for you all, and the students of the world yet to hear about Christ.

wow. this weekend truly touched my life and made me realize that i am not doing all that i could to help people know who our savior is!!! i was one of the people from first baptist that got stuck by the snow on the way to DC and it is a blessing that god allowed us to make is safely. we had an amazing time and we are already talking about coming to hong kong, australia, and japan for the world tour!! i don't know how we are going to get there... but i know that god will help us find a way. thank you for touching my life, and the lives of millions of others...

Mr Giglio! Thank you so much for allowing God to work in your life in the ways He has, this conference was such a blessing to me and so many others - I look forward to participating in future Passion events.

I've got my bracelet reversed, and I'll be praying daily for Kampala and all the sites for the tour. :)

May God continue to bless you and your ministry! It has certainly had a powerful impact on my life!

I must say that we listened to session 3 in the car on the way home to CT and listened to Mr. Giglio burp like 5 times. I almost peed my pants. Also, I made the cd as the young lady in the front who said "Life is not perfect." It is so true. I have been through so much but am known because of how I stay strong and endure it all. Getting my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy to try to spread the word of God to all the hurting people out there. Lastly, I love Christy Nockels, she is the only singer that sends chills up and down my spine and displays the light of Jesus on the stage in many ways. Thank you! By the way, I am the deaf girl in the front who kept getting you kicked out of the box up front...sorry:)

passion dc was my first and it was just amazing and really refreshed my view of jesus! I am a daughter of God and i cannot explain how much i needed to hear that this weekend! Does anyone know where we can get a copy of the sessions, they ran out!? and i really want to hear louie burp again haha

I was there this weekend. Never before has a conference brought me to tears. I love Jesus so passionately, but I haven't felt Him move so powerfully as He did this weekend.

I was the only representitive from my school--Goucher College--who was at the Passion Conference this weekend. Lately, I have felt more lonely and more opposed than ever. I was encouraged beyond words to see that I am NOT alone, that I am on of millions of students my age who love the Creator of the Universe. To worship with three thousand of them was something so phenomenal, I am having difficulty finding words.

She is on my heart and would love to have a chinese pen pal who is as cool as her. Please email me if I can get it...I would love to get connected to people and be the loud mouth I am to them before you guys come. You know I have a loud mouth but I promise it could be used for good.

I cannot wait until my family comes to Christ. Passion has opened doors to reveal to them just how much I love this God of mine.

Very Respectfully with Love,Lisa Bitzer (the deaf one again)bitzerlisa@yahoo.com

Mr. Giglio!first i just want to THANK YOU and your team for an AMAZING weekend at passion DC it was my first passion conference and i had an absolutely amazing time. sams story was truely touching and so very encouraging. i pray many many many blessings on you and your ministery and all the people that help to make passion a success! i have my wristband turned inside out as a reminder to continue to pray for kampala and the rest of your stops to cities and around the world!! ill continue to pray for you and our generation...i truely believe God is doing a MIGHTY WORK in Northern VA/DC area!! Praise JESUS!! God bless you

I hope this comment box doesnt have a max character count...Wow...amazing...empowering...incredible...these are words to describe my very first Passion conference..not only that but words to describe Jesus! I am a new Christian and I must say there is nothing better and this weekend showed me so much in how God works his glory! Thank you so much Louie for making this the most rewarding and fulfilling weekend of my life. It was such an uncontrollable emotional ride, but wow do I feel empowered by our savior right now! I will never forget this weekend and I thank Louie and everyone else (to include our volunteers--thanks guys for lunch! ;-)) for making this all happen and for continuing to touch other college and universities...Jesus moved so powerfully this weekend and I felt him there! Why cant we do this every weekend?

I hope and pray that passion will continue and the world tour will be just as incredible! I hope to attend one of the stops, and wish I could make the Kampala stop along with other members of my church...but god bless you all! Thank you again so much...there are no words to explain my thanks...

One question now...I recently brought our savior into my life...how do you "Radiate" that light to say your family (mom, dad, sister) they are believers but not committed and have not much faith at all and its hard to visit them because it kind of brings me down...but they are family and I love them...any ideas anyone??

Guys, I just got an overwhelming sense of the Holy Spirit moving in ways greater than we can even understand or begin to know! Praise our Great God for what He is doing in our nation's universities and what is to come in universities around the world! God is SO SO good and it oumps me up to hear a little about what He is doing!Keep it up Louie and Passion Team!

hey louie i sent an email to info@whateverwhatever ( well not really that, but you know where im going with it)anyways, friday was the day my life became unbearable with grief... pretty much. well.and i was honoured to share the beginning of the toughest life with you guys.sounds weird.but its quite true i suppose.hope my email found its way to your hands, who knows maybe it will make your day seem that much stinkin brighter?or not.cool...

xx

p.s.grr i never get these 'word verification things right first go around!

Passion, thank you so much for everything! The praise was mind blowing! The messages were so powerful! I really cannot wait to see the works that the Lord does through each and every one of you! God be with you on your world tour! I'm pumped for Passion 09! Come to DC again!

PS: LG...its ok to burp! we all do it! well, as long as francis isnt around! =)

i know hillsong has produced the song "mighty to save" , but after hearing the song performed by chris tomlin i fell in love with the song. so i was wondering if chris sings the song exclusively for passion (live) or if the song has made it on cd

Hey Louie,I have been thinking bout reconnecting with you for a while but then timing is always a hard thing to get right. I have this picture of you and I in Israel along with all these other pictures from that trip and thought that it would be cool to send it and then give you an update on my life. It is great to hear everyone excited about Jesus.....Then I remember how my world came crashing down around me when my excitement was based all upon emotion and a pure high that was not rooted in "Spirit and Truth"..... I was honored to hear you guys in 03 because God stationed me in Oklahoma City and was able to make the trip down for one day of the "One Day" weekend. Anyways I have not kept up with all that is going on in Buckhead or with passion for that matter and then I decided to check out the website in December (07) and was grateful for the message on using suffering as a megaphone. My life has not gone as I would have planned, but I would say that to see seeds come to fruition in me and those around me does wonders to faith and gives me a hunger and thrist for more.well got to go have a final to study for.....brother in Christ John Henderson

It is encouraging to hear what God is doing in and through you as you carry the message of His unending fame to the nations. May God continue to bless your ministry! I look forward to seeing you soon in Atlanta!

Passion was wonderful - My husband and I brought 18 young adults up from the Roanoke area and as we were leaving last night, we stopped to help four Canadian college students whose car had broken down. (Justin 1, Justin 2, Tom and Jim) They drove 22 hours from New Brunswick in an old car to attend the conference. Now that is Passion! Our guys helped them through the night and into Sunday until we had to get our group back to work. We thought the car was okay, but it has broken down again. (We've been maintaining contact by cell phone on their progress). If anyone in the Fairfax area can help, that would be great. Thank you, Rebecca

Passion in Northern VA was incredible this weekend! I'd just like to say thanks for being so real with us, and the worship experience was the best ive had in a long time!my thoughts and prayers will be with you as you all travel around the world!! God has so much planned for yall and i am so stoked to see where this ministry leads!

Thanks for the official update GOD is so AMazing 14 wells from only 3,000 college students (WOOO_HOOO!!!!) Thanks for letting us meet Sam and the hong Kong team. I just wanted you to know that GOd used Sam to minister to me.

I identified with her story of trying for academic success and her doubts (especially in searching and not knowing how to use her life as a part of God's story once she realized who God IS (WOW!!) - now With Passion in Hong Kong (AMAZING!!)

By the way just a thought, it is o.k to burp - cause you know we're all human !! I needed to hear the burp to remind me that we are not perfect and that a good laugh is so vitally important in the midst of life's trials !!

this was my 2nd regional, and i was blown away... again. 2 of my roomies came w/, one is not a christian. after friday night she was freaked out. she pretty much told us that that night solidified to her that she did not want to be a christian. she was very tired and grumpy all saturday. her wall has been built up so high with SO much baggage and problems... her story, in fact, is VERY similar to ashley. she listened to the stories, but i dont think she internalized them. today we had a 9+ hour car ride back home, and during the last hour she began to ask us lots of questions about jesus and heaven and how we just KNOW that what we believe in is true... it was such a great thing. i think now, that a couple of the top rows of that wall have begun to crumble. please keep C. in your prayers as we continue to love on her... pray that we can be the fruitcakes that she needs!!

and i also missed out on getting teh session 3 recording... is there anyone who can help me out? i would love to send money to passion so that im not just ripping them off :)

DAREN, I regards to your question about how to "radiate the light", I will answer with what Francis said in Dallas... (He may have said this in DC as well)He read the scripture in matt 5:16"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."And he posed the question: "How does something WE do bring glory to GOD?" and the answer to the question was THE HOLY SPIRIT.It's the holy spirit through us that takes what we do and brings the attention and the glory to the Father... and ultimatly HE is THE one who saves. I found this whole idea amazing...Hope that makes some sense : )

I want to say thank you to the Passion crew for putting on a great event in DC!

In DC God spoken to me once again as he did in Atlanta last year. When I was listening to Sam last night talk about her country it remind me of Passion 07 when God lad the country of China my heart. Well I prayed for China and for God to show me the meaning for this prayer. Turn out he had big meaning for it. This past August my campus minister came to me and told me about a trip to China this summer with the Virginia Baptist Mission Board. Well guess what I am going on that trip this June and will be working in city of Macau speaking with people that work in the restaurant and help them with there convocation English. I can’t wait for what God has in store for me there and if this trip is a preview of a longer staying trip to China in the future.

Everyone please pray for me and for the other students that are going on this trip with me. God is going to do amazing thing there I know it!

I identify with the problem you are facing first hand. ALthough, my step-dad and family know I am a Christian they support me with love. However, they have made it perfectrly clear that they are atheist and do not believe which is a lie. This is the influence of their step-father and he is from India and follows the Hindu religion (although he really does not attend a temple- only goes for food and other cultural events). HE has made it perfectly clear to me and to them that he hates Christianity but respects people's right to believe in whatever religion they want to believe. WE are on good speaking terms but he will not let me take my younger siblings to church even if they wanted to attend. Our mom (although saved) has not been in the picture lately (LONG STORY), so I have had to step in and help be a support for my younger siblings.

In my experience with unbelieving family members, it is best to let your life shine in Jesus by your actions (going to church - reaching out to help others locally or on mission trips), by how you speak and approach life (your attitude)in the hard times. Remember Louie's words "The light of Jesus in you is amplified THE LOUDEST IN YOUR PAIN"!!

This has been true of my family. They know I am Christian by my actions. I PRAY FOR THEM and I JUST LISTEN (very Important). NOW when they have a problem I AM THE FIRST PERSON they call and look to for advise. Again, My siblings also know that I am praying for them when they go through tough times or days. Just remember you are identifying with our Savior as you face trials and persecution or mockery for your faith!!

Again, just pray, listen, and Believe in greater things yet to come. Hope this helps.

I didn't even notice that it said Kampala, Uganda inside of my wristband! I haven't taken it off yet, and I'll pray for your team as they go to Kampala in a couple of months!

I'm especially excited for Seoul, South Korea! My father told me that you'll be meeting Rev. Joseph Kim in Korea in a couple of months. He's close family friend of ours and he's really a great man of God. I do hope you get to work with him and I believe God will do great things through both of you in Korea!! and God willing I hope to join you in Korea! Thank you for everything, Mr. Louie Giglio! God bless you!

This is my first passion conference in D.C (representing Raleigh, NC). God showed me that my testimony, even though wasn't like a Ashley, that a life serving Christ from the beginning was just as valuable as any other, because it was Gods grace that covered it all. I grew up my entire life with my mom saying there is no greater testimony than to say, "I served the Lord from the day I was saved at four." Wow

Hey Louie and the Passion Team!I just wanted to say... I was one of the people you mentioned at the end of the first session on the first night that God had put on your heart. Thanks for the affirmation of God's words to me and for the encouragement! God and His love became very raw and real for me that night.I was praying about going to Passion DC, but with no money, ride, or place to stay, I thought well...maybe another time (at least I was at Passion Boston!). Thursday night a friend called and said she was sick and asked if I wanted to take her place going to Passion DC! So I went down with her church friends with no money on hand and they graciously covered everything for me from food to hotel fees - someone they barely knew!All in all, this has been an amazing weekend for me seeing God reach down and the heart of God in Passion and his people and even though it's something you all have probably heard a million times, thank you so much for the heart and hope you have for us lowly college students...hoping and praying for a great 2008 World Tour and a great finish in Atlanta.also if he ever gets to read this,thanks to Matt Redman for praying for us right outside the store at the end of the last session on the second night. We got home safely thanks to your prayers!

I sent an email to info@268generation.com with something for you. I just pray you receive it and that it doesn't get dismissed. Also THANK YOU for being such a blessing with your words! You have an incredible gift of speakeing, and I hope sincerely that God will continue to bring his message through you in this upcoming World Tour.

P.s... That 3rd picture out of them all is a picture of me alone worshiping!! That is so cool!!!! Thank you for that great and perfect reminder of such a chimerical and life changing event!

What an amazing weekend. I appreciated hearing from Sam, and hearing of Ashley and Christa. I have a definite appreciation for y'all and the way you've integrated personal faith, sharing Jesus with other nations, and meeting their physical needs. God is definitely using y'all to talk to people, and using them for His Glory!God bless you guys--even when you do burp mid-sentence :)

Mr. Giglio,Yes, the burping made me laugh harder then I have in a LONG time, the worship made me cry harder then I have in probibly my entire life at the foot of the cross, and the messages, I feel like someone opened up my journal, and picked out things I needed to hear. I kept on looking for my journal to show up on the screen and for you to be like "yes, we took her journal and we read it and these are the thing we need to say to her." The Lord did amazing things through Passion DC. Thank you for coming to my town, thank you for blessing me, and for encouraging me. To walk in, and have your beautiful helpers CLAPPING...it was mind boggling. I come from a church that doesn't even have a college group, to a place where adults are clapping? It impacted me so much just to know that people care. I wish I could just sit down with you, and share my story of what God did through Passion 2008, because you will never be able to understand just how this impacted me, and some of the things I let go of, and held onto this weekend. Thank you. P.s. Rebecca, the one that told about the students whose car broke down, if you read this, leave a comment on my blog (linked above with my name) and I might be able to help out your group. Not sure how, but if they need a place to stay or something....)

each passion time bring more. I love hearing how God is impacting the lives of so many all around the world. I tell ya one day maybe i will be able to serve and see first hand the mighty works in motion.

Mr. Giglio I just want to tell you that Passion DC has really changed who I am and how I see the world. It was amazing how God moved, I had not been a part of anything like this since I was in High School. It was really refreshing to be a part of. My heart has been molded and transformed. Thank you for coming and I'm praying for all of you every day.

Is there any way we can get the messages from DC on cd or downloads? I tried to purchase them at the last session and the volunteer team told me you guys ran out of cd's and that they wouldn't be available. There are a few people who weren't with us that we would love to share the messages with. Thanks!

I just wanted to say thank you. I attended the Passion DC this past weekend, and it changed my life completely. I have been a follower of Christ for years, but never have I ever felt as close to God as I feel now. I had a life-changing experience this past weekend. I cannot thank you enough for the opportunity to grow more in Christ. May God bless the Passion Team for making these inspirational moments happen in the lives of college students! And I pray He gives you the funding you need to make His name known throughout the world. Thank you, again!

Wow! God used Passion to do so much in my life! Thank you for all that you do! I'm stoked your in to blogging too like me haha. Just got done writing all that God did in my life and thought I would look for a site for Passion! I'll be on here a lot!

Passion D.C. was amazing!! I remember listening to Passion a long time ago, because my dad loves you guys,lol, and I never appreciated your songs or what the whole passion movement was about. When I got saved in 10th grade (while back) I understood what those lyrics were talking about and I appreciated the songs of sincere worship and praise. Long story short, I love the whole movement and have been for a while, I HONESTLEY appreciate how God is using you guys:0) And Passion D.C. 08 was my very first passion conference... I'm so grateful that I was able to go!!

Thank you so much for bringing Passion on the road. I am a young adult leader who got to bring a group in from Shepherdstown, WV. It was great to get to worship together and grow closer to God together. I am really looking forward to what God has in plan for our area and for the campus of Shepherd University! Greater things are still to be done!

Kyler <><

P.S. I was unable to get session one!!! If anyone knows how I can get it please let me know. Session three doesn't quite work without it. Thanks!kbarr@covenant-mail.com

WowI must say Passion DC was amazing, Our God is amazing! This weekend has really helped me to get my life back on track. Going in to this weekend I wasn't as hyped as some of my friends. However through the grace of God and his love, I have become on fire for God. God spoke to the whole weekend, and I felt a constant and loud pull on my heart for Uganda. I have watched the Invisible Children movies and was touched by their stories. However I longed to bring the word to these forgotten children. Currently I am praying about what God would have me to do, right now I think I am being called to Uganda and the children there. I just think it is amazing Passion is doing a World Tour in Kampala. I would like to get to Uganda for the Passion event, but everything is in God's hands and right now I am just letting him guide me.Praise be to God he is the enternal flame, I just pray his fame shines through meAndrew

Wow. I don't even know what to say. This weekend. I mean God just always takes my expectations and blows them out of the water. Louie and all the Passion people, THANKS so much for listening to God's call and doing all you do to let Him work through you to help change the world, one life at a time! I was at Passion in Atlanta and this year I went to D.C. and took my boyfriend and one of our best girlfriends. We all had such a reviving, life-shaking time! We are all 3 Christians, but a lot of times I feel my friend has it down a lot better than me and my boyfriend. However, this weekend I really, truly learned for the first time that that is OK! God still loves me just as much and HE really, really does love me! I just am praying every day (adn several times) that the Holy Spirit will just fill my body and soul and that all I do and say may be guided through Him. I could go on forever thanking everyone and talk about how I am listening to God of this City this very moment! Sam-God Bless you! I will pray for you everyday! You are such a precious child of God! Mike (Ashley's Dad) I will be praying for you everyday too! God loves you and so do we!!!

I just love everybody and encourage every one of you to use your flame to magnify the name of Christ! Let's all be fruitcakes!!!

I was at DC this weekend. This was the eighth time in three years that God has allowed me to join you all in what He is doing, but I just have to say that there are now words to describe what happened this weekend. I wish we could all sit down in a living room somewhere and just share what happened, but I guess that would have to be way too big of a room. But of all the concerts and events that has had to do with Passion that I've attended, this was the one where God took the vision and exploded it into my head. I am not a college student and don't believe I ever will be because The LORD has never lead that direction, so, though I have loved you all like family over the years, the actual vision of Passion (in reference to College students) had never realy become mine. But all that began to change when I got the list of Colleges coming to DC and started praying over them. It's hard to explain, but God was prepearing me to catch the vision. And then on the trip from KY to DC, I started seeing all these signs for the same Universities that I had been praying but had no idea where they were: culminating in suddenly being right in the heart of James Madison College and looking into the windows and seeing the students there- talk about a moment. All at once the names weren't just on a piece of paper but were living, breathing people. All I can say is wow. And Saturday night when Louie read off the colleges was absolutely amazing. I still have no idea how He wants to use me or how He is going to bring it about, but I now have a burning passion for my generation, and specifically the beautiful students of the world. Bless you all in the vision He has given you. It is an awesome burden, and awesome task, and an awesome gift from our incredibly awesome God- and He will do the work! Thank you from the bottom of my heart and much love in Him!

See you in Atlanta!Christis Joy

P.S. By the way, aside from the nights when I got saved and fully surrendered to Jesus, Saturday Night was the greatest in my life- all glory to God!P.S.S. GREATER THINGS HAVE YET TO COME....

Where do I begin to express and tell of all that occurred in my life and in the lives of those who attended the DC event with my wife and I?

There are a few things I know…I know God put PASSION, Louie Giglio, Francis Chan, John Piper, Charlie Hall, Matt Redman, Chris Tomlin, Christy Knockels and David Crowder in my life several years ago to challenge and grow me up in Him. It all started with the music, then we heard one of Louie’s messages. We attended a Passion concert event years ago near Clarks Summit, PA (might have been 150 people there) that was just a band doing the music and that was it, God had us hooked. We’ve since been to numerous Hall, Crowder, Tomlin shows. Been to Tomlin/Redman/Giglio tours. Been to a Liberty University Passion event. Been to Thirsty07. I am so appreciative of the vision God birthed in Louie and Shelley and how PASSION is obviously of God and a generation is being changed because He is changing it through that vision.

I know that thousands of young collegiates will never be the same and thus our world will never be the same because of the experiences and the working of God’s Holy Spirit through events like these.

I know that God gave my wife and I the privilege of attending the DC event. And prior to going it was our desire to bring as many from our church who would come because we knew God would change lives in those moments. 22 of us were planning to attend, 21 one of us made it, satan won one of his battles for a moment in time but he hasn’t won the war! The snow and sleet did not deter. God knew our hearts wanted to be there with His and His sons and daughters. So, as only God can, He gave traveling mercy and changed the weather. Our church home has been through turmoil in recent years, now we sense God is doing something big. Go figure. Our pastor came with us, our youth pastor, our college leadership team, some of our college students, and some of our out of college individuals. I know Louie, the age focus is 18-25 but for our group God’s age focus was 20-54. Lives were changed. Life directions were altered. Hearts, eyes, minds were opened and filled up. Sins were released and rescue was given. Pride and self were overcome with surrender and abandon.

I know that prayer is mighty.

I know I can no longer just sit or hold back my praise for fear of offending someone in our pews who’s life is so bound up in fear and the past “way it use to be” mentality when “Mighty to Save” rings out from our worship team and my heart is telling me GOD WANTS MY PRAISE.

I know Christ took me as I was, loves me as I am…unconditionally.

I know the world is dark, there will be sin, there will be trouble, the heat will be turned up but I am encouraged, I have everlasting hope.

Hello Passion Team! My name is Amber and I met Sam after spending 2 summers in Guangzhou with her with a team from LSU, and we all would have loved to see Sam telling her story at the conference! We were all hoping she could make it to the Dallas or Atlanta conference and were bummed that we couldn't see here while she was here. But thank you so much for getting her to DC and taking care of her visa, because I know it was a dream for her just to come here and go to Passion, but you made the experience so much more than she could have ever imagined! I know she is so blessed! If there is any way we could have access to a recording of her talk, that would be amazing! I know you're busy, but if it's possible, my email is amoss2@lsu.edu. Thanks again so much for all you're doing not just here but all over the world! The vision of Passion has done so much in my life the past 2 years and it's incredible to see you sharing the picture of the throne all over the world! I'm praying for your team and the international cities all the time!

I just wanted to leave a comment about Passion DC. It truly was an amazing conference. I came with a group of 50+ from Buffalo NY. I couldn't wait to get home to go on the web site and look at the blog page and read everyone's comments. I was truly blessed to find out that when we turned our bracelets inside out it had Kampala Uganda on it. I will be praying daily for the passion conference in Uganda. I e-mailed everyone that went to the conference to inform them of the surprise on the otherside of our bracelets. I also want to say that I will be praying for Ashley's father Mike. That God will soften his heart to his words that are speaking through you Mr. Louie. If you can please keep us updated on Ashleys father! Praising him for the amazing weekend, Andrea

can't say how grateful i am for all of you guys giving yourselves to God so that HE can use you the way He did this weekend...me, my brother and a couple of friends came from south jersey...in my case i wanted to just get away from everything here, problems, temptations, get my mind of everything and have a good time and seek God's will but God did so much more...He broke me like never before, i understood that God does love me, i understood that no matter what i do i want to do it all for His glory...i know that i can try to run on my emotions but eventually they'll die, so i want to continue to seek His word and be filled with the Spirit...i want to take it to the streets, i want to bring that fire back to my church, i want Him to take my life...let's not stop now but continue to let this little match burn til the end.-jc-(underoath13x@yahoo.com)

I had posted this on my blog and it's a story about the towels for Passion::DC.

I had written:==============

"This was awesome! My new friends from The Loft went to K-Mart to buy more towels. They contacted the manager about getting a discount for buying tons of towels and if they get more than 10, they could get 15% off. Well, they started pooling their money and then more Passion attendees showed up and wanted to pool also. They ended up getting someone to go to the front to have them make an announcment. They paged the entire store for all Passion attendees to go to the home decor section. Andrew told me that another 20 people showed up and they cleared the entire aisle of towels! lol! Now, I'm at the lobby waiting for the evening session to open when all of a sudden, there's just this line of people with towels coming in! I was in shock and blown away, lol! I hope the receipt makes it to Louie. That reaffirms even more to me that God is ready getting this generation moving for His glory!"=================

My friend Andrew told me the details of what had happend and it was just awesome!

Wow! All I have to say is WOW! Thank God for everything he is doing in and through you and the Passion team!

So in slightly more detail here is the KMart story...Our group was compelled to go to pick up more towels to help meet the goal. So we called Rite-Aid and they had been cleaned out of towels! (I wonder who could have done that?) So we went over to a KMart and actually went to the manager asking if there was any way that we could get a discount if we bought enough towels. He took us to a towel section in Home Decor and said he would give us %15 off if we bought at least 10. So our group of 8 started to pool money together and then some more people attending Passion came around the corner and they contritbuted money as well then we prayed that somehow God would provide more money...we felt like we could give more. We sent someone up to the front to announce on the PA system that anyone in the store from the Passion Conference should go to the Home Decor section. We had 20 more people show up and we gathered enough money to clear out all 103 towels left! PRAISE GOD!!!

It was really exciting to see God work even in such small way!

Blessings to you as Passion continues around the world...hopefully I will get to go!

Just had to say as a volunteer, this was my 2nd Passion event and it never ceases to amaze me how it all comes together! God is so awesome! Of the sessions I heard, I was moved to tears...amazing. The worship, the messages, and the friends I met--it all gives me more hope! Continue on Louie and the Passion Team--you guys do such a wonderful job. Best, Jill

Thank you Passion for all that you do to further the Kingdom. Praise be to God! Also, I just wanted to say that my heart and prayers go with you as you reach the world for Christ. As much as I will miss you back here in the states, I am more excited about the Holy Spirit's work in the cities and countries that you are visiting. I pray that supernatural things happen as you take on this venture and that thousands of college students around the world would come to know the King.

I know we've already passed Dallas, but I just wanted to say that Passion was seriously THE greatest and best days of my entire LIFE!! I grew up in a Korean Christian family and participated in a LOT of retreats and church activities, but never have I been so close to God as those 2 days. I am SOOOO thrilled that Passion is going on a world tour! Especially since it is passing by 2 places dear to my heart: Korea & Brasil-sil-sil-sil!! I was born and raised in Brasil and am still passionate about my motherland. (I don't know if you heard/saw me, but I was the PROUD Brasilian who cheered for her beautiful country when you said "Sao Paulo, Brasil" during World Tour talk :P ). Unfortunately, as I grew up, I also witnessed a lot of God's Word being misguided or misinterpreted. It's a sad thing, but a very real thing throughout Brasil.

After almost 2 weeks since the Passion, your 120% Christian blog revived the passion that was planted in my heart during those days. I will continue to pray for Passion and for the places that it will touch.

Actually though, I really wanted to know more about your plans for the Sao Paulo tour (that's where I grew up). I'm trying to get all of my friends, family, and my parents' students (they are missionary professors at a seminary near Sao Paulo) to go to the conference. Where could I get the details for it? And also, I wanted to help fundraise for the Sao Paulo event, but I wasn't sure how to pass it on to you guys. .... I WANT TO HELP! but what must i do? :/

The worship was on par with any given Frontline service and the teachings were convicting and insightful, but most of all, I felt like this was a God-event: a conference saturated by the presence of the Holy Spirit. Throughout the sessions, I felt like God was moving in a mighty way, through the songs and teachings. I have never seen so many 18-25s dancing in the aisles, shouting their lungs out, lifting their hands and jumping, arrive but early to get a spot in the praise pit, or responding to “alter calls” as I have this past weekend. Is this a foreshadow of heaven? People praising and dancing for God in an undignified way? Young people who have been inebriated in the Spirit, not caring about how they look or appear to those around them, but channeling all their passionate love energy towards God? Yes, it should always be like this!!!

For me, it was good b/c I felt like God was doing a number on my heart – both in convicting, restoring, and teaching me through the messages, and also loving and transforming me through the praise times. There was also a very inspiring message that you, Mr. Giglio, gave about Ashley, that showed me how much of impact I can potentially have around those around me that haven’t yet believed. I think God boosted my faith this weekend.

I have witnessed the greatest spiritual movement in my life. I thank you and the Passion Team for putting so much time and effort, and thereby, dedicating yourselves to this movement. The talent required to operate their technical equipment, and logistical planning that goes before each Passion regional event – the amount of time that the team has to put forth in prayer and preparations only boggles my mind. But God has been behind everything, causing doors to open, making things happen! The bottom line is really the Holy Spirit and what He has done and we are these things for His fame, glory, and renown!

dear dc and passion team,i am the ashley louie spoke of, and my wonderful fruitcake friends brought me with them the dc event this past weekend. i can honestly say i had no idea what i was getting into, and thank goodness i didn't because the real ashley in me wouldn't have come. but i must admit that i am so blessed and thankful i did. now i know what it means to have faith and what it means to feel something move in you. watch louie and being where i am in life, i was moved to sobbing tears. there is so much to thank everyone for there, but mostly thank you for your warmth and energy. i was running out of it come the second session, but the entire weekend is an experience i won't soon forget. i can't wait for passion atlanta, and maybe, just maybe all the S@#$ that happens on my couch will change, and I too can become a wrong in all the right ways fruitcake.

you've changed my life SIR Giglio. you've moved my heart, removed some judgement. i'm still in the journey if you're still in. i feel a bit like the catepiller waking up and hopefully in atlanta, i'll have my shut up moment.

I know we've already passed Dallas, but I just wanted to say that Passion was seriously THE greatest and best days of my entire LIFE!! I grew up in a Korean Christian family and participated in a LOT of retreats and church activities, but never have I been so close to God as those 2 days. I am SOOOO thrilled that Passion is going on a world tour! Especially since it is passing by 2 places dear to my heart: Korea & Brasil-sil-sil-sil!! I was born and raised in Brasil and am still passionate about my motherland. (I don't know if you heard/saw me, but I was the PROUD Brasilian who cheered for her beautiful country when you said "Sao Paulo, Brasil" during World Tour talk :P ). Unfortunately, as I grew up, I also witnessed a lot of God's Word being misguided or misinterpreted. It's a sad thing, but a very real thing throughout Brasil.

After almost 2 weeks since the Passion, your 120% Christian blog revived the passion that was planted in my heart during those days. I will continue to pray for Passion and for the places that it will touch.

Actually though, I really wanted to know more about your plans for the Sao Paulo tour (that's where I grew up). I'm trying to get all of my friends, family, and my parents' students (they are missionary professors at a seminary near Sao Paulo) to go to the conference. Where could I get the details for it? And also, I wanted to help fundraise for the Sao Paulo event, but I wasn't sure how to pass it on to you guys. .... I WANT TO HELP! but what must i do? :/

Louie,Thank you for such an AMAZING weekend in DC!! I wanted to share what the Lord has put on two hearts at the conference. My Fiancée and I (along w/ our families) have tried for the last month to set the date for our wedding. Keep in mind we know our venues and the majority of our smaller details. But, each date we picked out in June wouldn't work out for one reason or another. But now we know why.... During the conference at separate times the Lord put it on both of our hearts to spend our Honeymoon serving our Savior volunteering for Passion World Tour. It's quite amazing that you'll be in Paris and London for the beginning of June. My Fiancée has spent time in France, and I in England. (Bk from Tracy to John) But in the last few days God has made it clear that He wants to start a new thing in us. Since Friday night we have been praying that God would join our two flames into one, and join ours into His. Kampala, Uganda is where the Lord is leading us, and despite our fear we say "Yes, Lord - Your Name and Your reknown is the desire of our soul." So please accept us as excited, confident, and completely terrified volunteers. We will serve in whatever capacity you can use us and trust God to make the way before us.

::Passion:: DC for me is summed up in a snapshot of Francis Chan spreading his arms and looking in shocked amazement at his metamorphosis from caterpillar into butterfly. SHUT UP! Would to God that each one of us would realize the transformation that God has made in our lives and to live -uninhibited- leaning on the everlasting arms. We are 100% loved by Him not because we merit His love but just because WE ARE!

God used Passion DC and the stories of those students to change my life. I am just like Marissa! I have to get my story to those in Frnace and Uganada--God is sending me to one of these places--how can I contact them??! Help!trying to live it out,JLH

God really used PASSION:DC and the people there to change my life! I'm just like Marissa! How can I contact those in France & Uganda? God is sending me to one of those places. Help!JLHbiologist4207@yahoo.com

Loved Passion:Dallas. We certainly love you and all your doing for the kingdom in the Lone Star state. Our prayers are with you as your God-given vision continues to grow and impacts to the nations. Passion to the rest of the world? Unbelievable!

Cheers,

Austin

PS- Any tips on how a few starving college social innovators can make it to NYC for "Q"?

So, I'm working on my exegesis paper... its on Matthew's Great Commission... working on this paper has reminded me of my weekend at Passion in Dallas. A few days ago I mentioned to a friend that I missed being at Passion... that I wished I was still there. But he made a valid point when he said, "Passion isn't over unless you want it to be."

Louie Giglio: Thanks for letting God use you to reach out and touch college students' hearts. At Passion, I rededicated my life to Christ. I gave the brokenness I was carrying around to Him. I want to live PASSIONately for Christ.

Louie, loved the podcast - thank you for it - I needed to hear it today... Sam's story is awesome - wow! I feel so honored to hear it... It is SO encouraging. It's amazing to hear a sister in christ that I may never see till heaven - linked by a grace and love that goes on forever... wow. Thank you for always reminding us of the bigger story all around this world... it amazing - speaking of that - keep saying: "everything is amazing" - I feel like that too. thanks for saying it : )

I am looking for a place to go on a mission trip alone for the summer. Does anyone have any contacts? I went to Africa last summer and am thinking of going back (then I can go to Passion in Joberg). Mr. Giglio or anyone else, let me know. God has put it on my heart and I have chosen to obey.

i've got post-Passion syndrome again. ever since coming home from DC, ppl have been asking me "how was Passion?". i open my mouth to answer "it was... umm.. good?". i realize what i saw and have experienced was indescribable. it was just a glimpse of heaven but im already at a lost for words. im getting more and more excited for what WILL happen when i get to heaven! it'll be partying non stop! but first, its time to live out this fruitcake life.

This past weekend has set things in motion for the rest of my life. I attended the Passion 08 conference at George Mason University. The conference was amazing. The speakers talked about living a life that brings glory to God’s name and asking for the Holy Spirit to work in your life. There were times for reflection and the worship was simply amazing. Then Sunday, Pastor Ray message just reaffirmed what was said at the conference. I was floored! God answered my prayers and revealed himself to me in ways I’ve never experienced. But today, God tested my faith and called me into action. This morning, I had a dream about a girl who I only seen a handful of times. In this dream, the girl was a person who was willing to do anything for anyone in need. The bad thing was I was late for work though. My father tends to encourage (or ride) me in the morning about being on time, which he should. But this morning, I took my time getting ready. Throughout the morning, this dream was still on my mind. After taking my time reflecting on the dream and getting ready for the day, I ended up being about 30 minutes late to the train station. While standing on the platform waiting for the train to come, who do I see walk pass me, the girl from my dream walks pass me. In my mind, I was thinking “God is you serious right now?” I watched her to see what train she got on and I followed. I started doing my quiet time then I hear, God telling me to go talk to her. I started to write in my journal as to what God is telling me to say. Simultaneously, I was nervous due to the fact I have no clue who she is and she doesn’t know who I am. But, I finishing writing what God was telling me, I hear Him tugging on my heart saying “Get up and Go, get up and go.” So I finally put my pride aside and listened to God and I went over and prayed for the moment to do this. I only had 3 train stops until my stop. So I walked over to her and said, “Excuse me, I know this is weird, but I wrote this for you. I think you should read this.” She had this puzzled look on her face and she read it. After reading the note she said still bewildered, “Ok and thanks.” As I get off the train, I get this joyous feeling that God is proud of me taking a bold step for Him and in our relationship. I started my steps for living a life that only brings Glory and Fame to His name. I write this not seeking a pat on the back but to only Glorify God. I pray that we all ask God to work within us to live a life that brings Glory to his Name.

I just finished to hear Sam on the podcast...and my heart is filled with joy...God is just so great...His love is infinite, it has no limits and it's forever...for each person on this world. Our God is great!!!!I, like Sam, feel alone sometimes, because I don't have friends of my age that believe in Jesus where I live...but her prayer give me new strenght...We are not alone!!!We will never be!Thanks Louie for let her share her story on the podcast!!If there are 21 listener, I want to be the 22nd!!:)Love in Jesus name,Daniela

Thanks for an amazing time in passion DC!!! What's more awesome is that we were able to partner up with Kampala. Uganda has always been on my heart ever since I went there for a medical mission trip last summer. Nonetheless, I was ECSTATIC when Passion DC was partnering up with Uganda!!!! I will be going back there again this coming May with a team of 30 people (mostly college students from all over the US). Any chance that we can be volunteers there to serve the college students in Uganda??

Thanks again for simply being obedient to our Lord's calling. May His name and glory be known all throughout the world!!!